Forestis Dolomites

The Forestis Spa is built around an unusual idea: four trees. Mountain pine, spruce, larch and stone pine each carry their own scent, vibration and healing stone, and the entire treatment concept is organised around them. It is a distinctly regional approach, drawing on the Celtic traditions of the Alps rather than importing a standard wellness formula.

The facilities themselves are generous. There is an indoor and an outdoor pool, an infinity pool facing the Dolomites, a forest sauna, a steam bath and quiet relaxation areas. A dedicated Wyda area is used for movement and breathwork — Wyda is a Celtic practice that Forestis describes as comparable to yoga or Qi Gong. The spa is reserved exclusively for hotel guests, which keeps it calm even in peak season.

Treatments draw on local alpine botanicals and are designed to complement the mountain setting rather than replicate a generic hotel spa experience. The outdoor pool is particularly well positioned — the views across the valley are unobstructed.

One practical note: the spa is popular and treatment slots fill quickly, especially in high season. Book your preferred treatments at the time of reservation rather than on arrival.

Forestis has 62 suites and penthouses, all oriented to face the Dolomites. The rooms are finished in local larch wood, natural stone and muted textiles — the aesthetic is deliberately calm, with large windows that make the landscape the centrepiece.

The tower suites occupy the upper floors and offer the widest panoramas. Penthouses add more space and a more private feel. If you are celebrating a special occasion, the upper-floor rooms are worth requesting at the time of booking.

The hotel also has a private villa for guests seeking complete seclusion. For most stays, a standard suite is more than sufficient — the design quality is consistent throughout.

The hotel's restaurants serve forest-inspired cuisine built around South Tyrolean ingredients — mountain cheese, wild herbs, local venison and wines from the Eisack Valley -  alongside a separate vegetarian and often vegan menu.The approach is seasonal and ingredient-led, with the kitchen working closely with local producers.

Two things worth knowing: breakfast is a long, unhurried affair with house-baked bread, local honey and fresh mountain produce — it is one of the better hotel breakfasts in the region. Dinner reservations are recommended, particularly during peak weeks in summer and winter.

Forestis sits at 1,800 metres on the Plose mountain above Brixen (Bressanone), reached by a private road from the valley. Brixen itself is approximately 30 minutes by car and is served by direct rail connections from Innsbruck, Bolzano and Verona.

The nearest international airports are Innsbruck (approximately 2 hours by car) and Verona (approximately 2.5 hours). Munich is approximately 3 hours. Bolzano has a small regional airport with limited connections. Transfers from Brixen station and from the main airports are available on request and for an additional charge.

The hotel has free underground parking for guests arriving by car. EV charging points are available on site.

Best time to visit: winter brings snow and ski access on the Plose; spring is quiet and the forests are at their most vivid; summer is the peak season for hiking and outdoor wellness; autumn offers cooler temperatures, fewer guests and exceptional light.